3 trades Chicago White Sox can make to be World Series favorites
By Scott Rogust
The Chicago White Sox have the opportunity to bolster their roster to contend for the World Series. Here are three trades they should make by the July 30 deadline.
Last season, the Chicago White Sox clinched their first postseason berth since 2008, but were eliminated by the Oakland Athletics in the first-round. The White Sox made moves this past offseason to ensure a return to the postseason and to solidify a deep run. So far, the White Sox appear to be in good shape.
As of this writing, the White Sox hold a hefty lead in the AL Central and looked destined to clinch the division title. The White Sox are in great position to bolster certain positions, while also filling in spots that are open due to injury. Here are three trades the White Sox should explore to improve their World Series odds.
3. Ian Kennedy, RP
The White Sox already have a closer in Liam Hendriks, whom they signed to a three-year, $54 million contract this past offseason. But if the White Sox want to make a run to the World Series, it always helps to strengthen the bullpen.
While Richard Rodriguez and Craig Kimbrel will be the hot names at the trade deadline, the White Sox really don’t need to make that big of a splash, considering their contract statuses. But what would work in their favor is to add a reliever who is set to hit free agency this upcoming winter. Ian Kennedy of the Texas Rangers would be a solid option for the White Sox.
After spending the previous five seasons with the Kansas City Royals, Kennedy signed a one-year, $2.2 million contract with the Rangers. As it turns out, that move was a smart one for Texas’ front office. Kennedy put up strong numbers through his short stint with the Rangers, and now he can be used as a trade chip to bolster their farm system.
Through 30 games this season, Kennedy posted a 2.67 ERA, a 1.055 WHIP, 15 saves, 32 strikeouts and seven walks through 30.1 innings of work.
It never hurts to add an arm into the bullpen, and the White Sox would be wise to give the Rangers a call for Kennedy.